The effect of opioid receptor drugs on astrocyte function (360G-Wellcome-207096_Z_17_Z)

Astrocytes are multifunctional cells of the central nervous system that play key roles in development, homeostasis, neuromodulation, and inflammation. In recent years, the roles played by astrocytes in the development of chronic pain have received increased scrutiny. Evidence that astrocytes can contribute to the sensitization of neuronal circuits linked to nociception has led to renewed interest in the potential of astrocytes as a therapeutic target for intervention in chronic pain. Morphine remains the most effective treatment for pain, despite decades of research into alternatives. Despite this, very little is known of the effect of opiates on astrocyte function, or even whether astrocytes in the spinal cord express functional opioid receptors. The goals of this project are to address this gap in knowledge, by testing for the expression of mu-opioid receptors in astrocytes cultured from the spinal cord. Through both direct labelling for the receptor, and by testing receptor agonists and antagonists for activity in calcium and cyclic AMP signalling pathways, we will determine whether functional receptors are present in the cells. Success in these goals will illuminate whether opiates may act in part via modulation of astrocyte function, and whether this may contribute to analgesic effects.